Horses At Work

Since the first viewing of the 22 acre field under snow in March of 2004, Jill Barker and a dedicated group of volunteers have been steadily developing a competition venue outside of Windsor, Nova Scotia. The first year of competition re-introduced grass show rings to competitors, for many, their first time competing on grass. The site in 2010 provided two large grass rings dedicated to hunter com

petition and two adjoining sand rings which host jumper competitions. A permanent gazebo was constructed in August of 2010 which has become a welcome base for the show office, as well as announcer and judge working areas. In the early part of 2011, the sand rings were refurbished and re-fenced for the coming competition season. In June of 2012, a number of new wings were built and our permanent bank built, packed and seeded! The property continues to evolve with landscaping of a beautiful perennial garden on the hill, tree plantings as well as several hacking trails that are in development. Sand rings were refurbished and are now able to be maintained on a regular basis with the addition of a customized ring drag and water wagon. A regulation portable dressage ring will enable us to offer dressage clinics and future competitions. We welcomed a pole wagon to ease setting up of the fences for competitions. Jump refurbishment over the summer and wings in the future for 2019. The grass field has matured nicely with the removal of the old ring fencing last year and provides a great area for natural fences and riding

2019 will be remembered for the generous contribution of ScrapCo Atlantic who assisted us in the building of a permanent sand dressage ring. Finished in August, it now provides a permanent home for the full size dressage arena.

2020/2021 will be of course always be remembered as the years of the pandemic but also to remember the wonderful co-operation of all involved who made it possible for Horses At Work to not only Return to Sport, but also to Return to Competition as we were able to hose Hunter. Jumper and Dressage competitions. We also thank A&A Aggregates for their donation of sand for the dressage ring. USC Horses At Work offers a number of competitions each year. The development series continues to be offered, designed to develop riders and horses at all ages, providing a safe, enjoyable environment to develop the skills and experience necessary to be successful at a higher level of competition. Competitions are kept as realistically affordable as possible for all contestants but the creation of a high quality level of show ring conditions is an important element at USC. Continual maintenance and introduction of jump equipment, the beauty of real flowers and trees decorating well designed courses, and a schedule of events that begin at 9 AM and are completed by suppertime lends a positive environment for all. The series provides a valuable training ground as well for aspiring judges wishing to gain experience before going for national certification.